Seven Tips For Falling Asleep For Those Who Suffer From Chronic Pain

14 April 2015
 Categories: , Blog

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It's not uncommon for chiropractor patients who suffer with chronic pain in the back or another part of the body to have trouble getting to sleep at night. Discomfort anywhere in the body can make it seem impossible to achieve the relaxation necessary for falling asleep. 

While chiropractor care at a place like Dils Chiropractic can help to lessen the pain, even chiropractor patients still sometimes have trouble sleeping because of back problems or other chronic conditions. If you suffer from chronic pain and you have trouble falling asleep, consider the following seven suggestions for getting to sleep at night:

  • Don't go to bed until you're ready- There's nothing more frustrating than struggling to fall asleep. However, you should realize that you set yourself up for this frustration if you're trying to sleep when you don't really need to. If you can't fall asleep, try getting up and dooing something productive until your eyes start feeling droopy. 
  • Try visualization- Many an insomniac has realized that "counting sheep" doesn't necessarily help. But be creative and find the solution for you. You might find that simply meditating or trying some other methods of clearing your mind does the trick after some practice. 
  • Do some writing or reading before bed- Sedate activities like writing and reading can help to tire out both the body and mind before bedtime. They can also help you to clear your mind of worries and distractions. 
  • Work out during the day- Insomniacs who begin an exercise regime often find that getting some activity during the day completely gets rid of their sleep problems. While exercise may be difficult for sufferers of chronic pain, you can consult with your chiropractor for ideas on exercises that you can participate in despite your condition. 
  • Keep your room cool- Studies have shown that it's often easier for insomniacs to get to sleep in a colder room. It's especially important to keep the pillow and head cold, so try using a cooling cap or turning the thermostat down a bit at night. 
  • Evaluate your bed and bedding- This is another issue where your chiropractor's advice will come in handy. If you regularly receive chiropractor treatment, you hopefully have already discussed your mattress and pillow with your chiropractor. He or she can provide you with advice on the best bedding products for those with chronic pain in the back or elsewhere in the body. 
  • Consider sleeping pills- If nothing else seems to work, you might want to get a prescription for a sleeping pill that will help you get the sleep you need.